Advent Resource Guide

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel

What is the season of Advent?

"Advent is a time of preparation. It is a time to look inward. It is a time to get ready and to see how ready we really are. " — Bishop Anthony B. Taylor

The word "advent" originated from the Latin "adventus," which means coming. The season of Advent, therefore, is the preparation for the coming of Jesus, first through the incarnation and ultimately, his coming again in glory at the end of time. | lea en español

The liturgical color of Advent is purple, except on the Third Sunday of Advent, called Gaudete Sunday, when rose vestments may be worn. "Gaudete" is Latin for "rejoice," which is the first word of the entrance antiphon. The color rose signifies anticipatory joy that the waiting is half over and Christmas is near. | Go to Christmas Season.

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Share Your Light Advent Calendar

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Advent Resources 2024

Advent Traditions

Find out how to make a Jesse Tree, celebrate Mexican custom of Las Posadas and discover the real story behind St. Nicholas.

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Advent Calendars

Advent calendars may offer daily activities, keepsakes and prayer suggestions to help you spiritually prepare for the birth of Jesus.

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Advent Wreath

This wreath consists of evergreen branches, three purple candles and one rose candle, which together signify the four weeks of Advent.

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Prayers and Hymns

Pray the O Antiphons, Festival of Lessons and Carols or other traditional Advent prayers in the days leading up to Christmas.

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Advent Saints

The lives of the saints inspire us, especially when we are struggling to find our way. This is especially true of the saints whose feast days we celebrate in Advent.

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Advent Events

Parishes, schools, religious communities and clubs statewide will host craft bazaars, bake sales, dinners, concerts, plays, visits from Santa and much more.

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